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Are Dog Training Group Classes Necessary?
Your puppy or older dog has completed basic obedience training. Congratulations! You and your pet have not only developed trust and strengthened your bond, but your puppy or dog is well on their way to becoming a loyal, loving companion.
Dog Training Elite Los Angeles knows dog training is truly a lifelong pursuit. As your puppy or dog masters the basics, you can move onto more complicated tricks and training. Maybe you’ve progressed from “sit” to seeing how long they can hold it, or you’re working on taking your pet through an obstacle course.
It can be hard to come up with new ideas to train your dog, and after months of having structured training one-on-one with your pet it can be especially difficult to know what to do next. What will benefit both you and your dog the most?
Dog Training Elite offers dog training classes in Los Angeles for puppies and older dogs that may be the answer you’re looking for. While group training classes aren’t always necessary, they can be extremely beneficial to both your dog and you.
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Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite Los Angeles location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered.
Benefits of Group Classes
Just like humans, dogs all have their own personalities. Some may receive and respond to all the training they need from private, one-on-one instruction, while others may find great benefit from attending a group class. Group classes can be a great asset to both dogs and their owners, since it provides them with many different situations and experiences they may not otherwise have. Here are some other benefits of attending group dog training classes:
Socialization
Group dog training classes have a number of benefits, particularly with socialization. Taking a puppy to group classes once they’re immunized will help them grow into a well-socialized dog comfortable with other dogs and humans. Older dogs who weren’t well socialized as puppies can learn to socialize in a small, safe environment. Trainers will recognize signs of possible conflict between dogs and help owners learn how to diffuse situations and take care of their pets, and dogs will learn how to interact appropriately with each other.
Dog training classes can also be beneficial for owners! If you bring your dog to a group class, you’ll meet other dog owners and become part of a community. Dog Training Elite Los Angeles likes to make group classes exciting for both dogs and their owners, so expect to learn fun training games and enjoy an environment that feels less like a class and more like a social outing. Classes meet once a week, and both you and your dog will look forward to going every week.
Focus
Besides the socialization benefits, group classes are a great tool for dogs to learn to work around distractions. If your dog is perfectly obedient at home, but loses his or her mind at the dog park and forgets all they’ve learned, group classes are the way to go. Group classes are a safe way to help your dog learn to listen to you, even when they’re surrounded by exciting sights, smells and sounds.
Hands on Learning
In a dog training class, you are in control of the training. While your pooch may occasionally be used as the ‘demo’ dog, there will be very few instances where your dog only has to listen to the trainer. With a class, you are the trainer, and the instructor is just acting as a guide. With all of Dog Training Elite Los Angeles’s training options - in-home or through a class - you will always be the No. 1 trainer, not just sitting on the sidelines as someone else takes charge.
Each dog is unique, and the small classes at Dog Training Elite Los Angeles will allow you and your dog to still receive personalized attention and training. You will also have the opportunity to learn from other dogs and their owners. Imagine the trainer advises another owner how to help their dog learn to play independently. Later, you might remember the advice and apply it to your own dog, away from the class.
*Classes are open to all dog breeds and sizes, but all dogs are required to be immunized.
Our Balanced Theory
We base our training around the "Classical Conditioning" model (a.k.a. "Pavlovian" or "respondent conditioning"). This includes developing conditioned or automatic reflexes to commands. In its simplest form (after proper conditioning), when the owner says "sit," the dog automatically sits without thinking about it. Our unique techniques ensure our program is a success no matter what behavior we encounter.
Empowering Owners
We empower owners to train so their dog knows who to obey at all times.
Personalized
We deal with problem behaviors on a personal basis.
Environment Specific
We train wherever issues tend to arise (i.e. jogging, park, home).
Supportive
We support owners in the off-hours (when training is "not in session").
Involved
We work with all members of the household.
Simplified & Customized
We plan training around the owner's schedule and require only 20 min/day follow-up practice.
Continued Training
Additional programs / group sessions offered after in-home training.
Lifetime Investment
We follow up & are invested in the owner's success long-term.
Satisfaction Ratings
Our high client satisfaction rating sets us apart from competitors.
clas·si·cal con·di·tion·ing PSYCHOLOGY noun A learning process that occurs when two stimuli are repeatedly paired; a response that is at first elicited by the second stimulus and is eventually elicited by the first stimulus alone.
The Dog Training Elite Los Angeles Difference
Regardless of whether it’s an in-home training session or a group class, the Dog Training Elite Los Angeles training method is the same. Dog Training Elite Los Angeles focuses on positive reinforcement, also called “Classical Conditioning” or the “Pavlovian” method. Research has shown positive reinforcement to be more effective with longer lasting results than other training methods.
Dog Training Elite Los Angeles does not use punishments or shock collars and instead pairs positive reinforcement training with an electronic collar for superior results. An electronic collar is not a shock collar and does not harm the dog. It is a gentle electronic pulse, similar to the tug of a leash, used to get the dog’s attention. It is never used as a punishment for bad behavior.
Other dog trainers use harsh static collars or spray collars which have been shown to be less effective. The difference becomes clear when comparing a dog that is trained out of anxiety and intimidation vs. a dog who truly desires to please from the inside out. Dog Training Elite Los Angeles’s method of focusing on positive behavior reinforcement nurtures a dog’s loving and naturally obedient nature.
Signs Your Dog is Ready for Training
Every dog can benefit from training, and it can sometimes be a lifelong pursuit. If you’re wondering if training is right for you, here are some signs your dog is ready for training:
Your Dog is Destructive
Whether it’s chewing on furniture or shoes, going to the bathroom in your house, or anything else your dog is not supposed to do -- it’s time to get them trained out of these sorts of behaviors. Even older dogs who were previously well-behaved may develop bad habits later in life and need a training refresher.
Your Dog is Aggressive
Aggression can manifest itself in multiple ways; perhaps your dog growls or snaps at you when you get close to his or her food, or toys. Even more concerning is when your dog is aggressive towards other dogs or humans. Yes, sometimes dogs play in a way that seems aggressive, but if your dog is lunging at or snapping at people or other dogs while you’re on walks, it’s time to get a trainer’s help.
Your Dog Misbehaves on Their Leash
Walking nicely on a leash does not come naturally to most dogs but it is something that can be learned. Again, even older dogs who previously walked well on a leash may start to act out.
Your Dog is Anxious or Fearful
If your dog is dealing with severe separation anxiety, or is fearful in new environments, a trainer can help. For separation anxiety a trainer will work with you and your dog on a routine to reassure your dog. General training, especially in group classes, can help dogs build confidence.
Your Dog Ignores You at the Park
Or on walks, or whenever you’re outside. If your dog is obedient when they’re in your home, but loses their mind outside, he or she would benefit from more training. Group classes can be especially helpful because they put your dog in a safe environment with the kinds of distractions you experience outside. Training your dog in situations where there are other distractions helps them learn to obey even when there are other stimulating sights and sounds.
Join a Group Class Today!
Don’t wait! Find your nearest Dog Training Elite Los Angeles location to find a group class schedule and join a group dog training class today. Start building a community for you and your dog, and continue to strengthen your bond with your furry best friend.
Find a trainer near you today!
We help your dog become a valued companion and beloved member of the family. Read what our customers have to say and then give us a call!
Great time helping my pup name Ace he’s a Belgian Malinos breed after his training he has been easier to handle Hard work has paid off We are expecting to keep with his training at the park with your facility Trainer took his time to explain n help us greatly I would Highly recommend them— Maria G
Posted October 15th 2024
Would 10/10 recommend. Clayton was so helpful and understanding when it came to my reactive cattle dog— Ryan Peterlin
Posted October 15th 2024
Clayton is an amazing trainer who has not only taught our stubborn Jack Russell Terrier to listen and respond…..he has also taught us to be consistent with the training techniques and the results are fantastic. The time we have spent training our dog Gary for the last 8 weeks will pay off for a lifetime!— Brittney Post
Posted September 20th 2024
Clayton was great and very knowledgeable. They do awesome work.— Josh S
Posted September 18th 2024
Jon and Clayton are awesome. Our German Shepherd is a rescue and was very territorial at our house. The guys gave us great tools to redirect his aggression and teach him good manners. The whole experience has been outstanding. Highly recommend these guys.— Mike Feldman
Posted September 5th 2024
Just had my training session with Clayton he was so sweet and gentle with my big 92 lb dog. Taught me a lot in such a short time. Will be ordering Anya her little bed to focus on practicing her place command. Thank you again Clayton was a pleasure:)!— Sonia Vera
Posted August 7th 2024
Amazing training session for my nervous puppy! She was able to learn 3 new training skills the first day.— brianna gutierrez
Posted July 31st 2024
Had an intro session at my apartment. Learned a ton about how I can be more effective training my pup and some errors I was making— Akshay S
Posted July 31st 2024
Clayton is super patient and great at communicating. I like that he's very honest and helpful . I really enjoyed my dogs training session walking my dog will be less of a hassle now. He also saved my dog from an attack I swear Clayton is the best— Brit Hall
Posted July 25th 2024
This was the very best dog training session I've ever come across! Clayton, our dog training was absolutely great! He was very knowledgeable about dogs and knows exactly what it takes to get a dog on track in any area of training! I would absolutely recommend this company and Clayton, to anyone who needs help understanding their dogs, etc. He gave us so many great tips and explained so much to me that helped me understand just where my dog was and what he needed moving forward. Definitely will be using this company again!— THIS OR THAT!!!!!
Posted July 22nd 2024
Clayton is such a nice and talented man!! Learned so much from our session and will recommend to all my friends!— jasmin baadsgaard
Posted July 19th 2024
It was great! They're awesome and responsive, will answer any of your questions and concerns. Definitely reach out to them for proper training and their knowledge trainers. 😊— Victoria Cruz
Posted July 16th 2024
Our experience with Jon was terrific. Our Australian Shepherd is now a well trained young dog, the addition of the E collar was genius. We are extremely pleased and we recommend John highly— Jan Gordon
Posted July 13th 2024
This company is great! I saw improvement in my puppy after just the first training session. I cant wait to continue with her training and learn more.— Alexis Sanford
Posted July 11th 2024
I really enjoyed the training and was very impressed with Clayton’s knowledge on dog training— Brittany Jacobs
Posted July 11th 2024
My session with trainer was great!! He was very helpful and my puppy is acting good when walking now. Thank you!— 뷘
Posted July 10th 2024
I can not recommend the trainers and staff at Dog Trainer Elite LA enough!! Clayton showed up promptly at our scheduling session. I was a bit nervous with my dog being selectively reactive to random people and animals. I was unsure how my boy Rey, a staffordshire bull terrier, would react to a visitor. As we don't get very many at all. Of course he barked and sized up the trainer, Clayton, inside our home. I made sure I was vigilant to any signs of aggression. He's so good and obedient with me inside the house. So lovable and cuddly. However, another story when we go outside. I know that it falls under the owner, pack leader, and not so much the animal. I've been working on my communication to best of my ability with my dog. However, the strong pull I could not efficiently master with him. Within minutes, Clayton had him calm and striding close by his side in heel position. We even walked past a usual spot where my dog always nervously reacts to the dogs behind the fence. Clayton effectively controlled the situation and implemented some techniques. Such a difference. I was shocked and overjoyed! As we walked around the block, I then took on the leash and implemented Clayton's instructions. My Rey didn't pull or react like he normally would. I'm so thrilled and overjoyed with Clayton's patience and effective technique. Everything else with my boy is fine. I really appreciate Dog Training Elite LA. I highly recommend them. I will definitely be calling them for advanced obedience in the future. Look at them in action! 🐕🦺🧍🏻♂️— Anthony A. González
Posted July 8th 2024
Clayton was an awesome trainer, such a big help, educated me well on how to execute things I need to with my Nova. I appreciate him so much. I feel more confident— Taylor Thomas
Posted July 6th 2024
We’ve been working with trainer Clayton, he’s been so amazing, patient, & kind helping us with our 2year old American bully Ziggy. Ziggys getting better and more well behaved with every session. Thank you Clayton ❤️— Julianne Lantz
Posted July 3rd 2024
If you're struggling with leash-pulling, look no further. Dog Training Elite doesn't just train dogs, they educate owners! I spoke on the phone with the owner Jon, to learn a bit about the services they offered and was able to schedule an in-home session the following week. Clayton was the trainer that came to our home and our dog went from a pulling machine to a perfect walking companion in a single session. He also empowered us with the knowledge and skills to continue the training journey. We appreciate this personalized approach and commitment to our dog's long-term success.Thank you Jon, Clayton, and Dog Training Elite!— Cindy Q
Posted May 15th 2024